From now until the 2020 NFL Draft takes place, we hope to showcase as many prospects as possible and examine both their strengths and weaknesses. Most of these profiles will feature individuals that the Pittsburgh Steelers are likely to have an interest in, while a few others will be top-ranked players. If there is a player you would like us to analyze, let us know in the comments below.
#33 Anfernee Jennings/OLB Alabama – 6’2/1 256
The Good
– Big frame, large lower half and looks the part to be an NFL linebacker
– Technically sound player in all areas, pass rusher and run defender
– Excellent hand use, ability to disengage from blocks run and pass
– Sets a physical edge versus the run, strong force player who funnels everything inside
– Strong upper body who holds the point of attack against the run and routinely gave TEs problems
– Plays with excellent hand placement and strike, overall leverage and pad level is very good
– Smart player with good football IQ and pass rush plan, able to string together multiple moves on a play
– Versatile player who lined up all over, has experience playing with hand down or on his feet and use off-ball in college and at college All-Star games
– Good starting experience against elite competition
The Bad
– Average to slightly below average length (32 7/8 inches)
– Not a special athlete, just marginal burst off the line and isn’t explosive enough to threaten tackles around the edge with speed alone, causes him to get stuck on blocks
– Lacks hip/ankle flexibility that can make it hard for him to bend through contact, even if he shows good upper body use
– May change positions at next level, making his projection a little murkier
– Goes quiet too often for stretches of time
– Moderate production and never had a breakout/dominant year
– History of knee/ankle injuries, medical concerns that must be addressed for teams to be comfortable with him
Bio
– Three-year starter
– Career: 193 tackles (33.